The Forest of Gold
© 2008 Joe and Rebecca Duval
… presented by THL Beathog nic Dhonnchaidh, Lyon Bard
to Their Excellencies Thomas and Angelina,
and her household performing troupe, Cliar Cu Buidhe,
on the occasion of the Barony of Gyldenholt’s Anniversary
and Investiture, A.S. XLIII, dedicated to the honor of TRM
Edward and Mora, and to the glory of all Caid.
On a journey one morning I happened to meet
A man of long years with worn soles on his feet
And he mentioned that he had just come a long way
For at journey’s end there would be gold.
Well, I said, Prithee tell me more news of this land
Is the treasure well hidden from robbers at hand
May I be your companion and walk the same way
You’re welcome to join me, he said.
The gold there lies below in roots run deep
Within the heart of this magical keep
And the wealth is shared throughout the land
That is the tale I’ve been told
There in the Forest of Gold.
We had not far traversed when we met a young knight
And, hearing our tale, he chose to set us right
He’d come from the forest, and he knew the way
He would happily guide us, he said.
For the gold stands above in trunks so strong
Easily seen by those entering the throng
And the wealth is shared throughout the land
That is the tale he’d been told
There in the Forest of Gold.
A lady soon passed us as we made our way
There had been many others on this road today
But we need not fear, she assuredly said
There’s plenty enough there for all.
For there is gold among the branches wide
Enriching all travelers to this countryside
And the wealth is shared throughout the land
That is the tale she’d been told
There in the Forest of Gold.
We came upon pilgrims and joined in their quest
Until they found gold they would not take their rest
Content that this journey would bring them reward
They pushed on until the road’s end.
For we will see the gold among the leaves
And shelter there beneath opulent trees
Where the wealth is shared throughout the land
That is the tale we’ve been told
About the Forest of Gold.
I and my companions soon found journey’s end
And the magical forest we’d soon comprehend
For the trees there were filled with fruit of purest gold
That would nourish and sustain us all.
And all will see the gold among the trees
And know the rich center of all of Caid
Where the wealth is shared throughout the land
Thus is the tale I have told
About the Forest of Gold.